Thamesville, a quaint community nestled in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Canada, offers a unique blend of history, rural charm, and local festivities. Located at the junction of the former provincial Highways 2 and 21, between Chatham and London, Thamesville is named after the Thames River that flows nearby, with the suffix -"ville" added to it.
Thamesville's history dates back to 1832 when the post office was established. The community is home to several historical sites, including the former town hall, which now serves as a public library and museum.
Just outside Thamesville is the site of a significant battle from the War of 1812, where Shawnee leader Tecumseh was killed during the Battle of the Thames. A monument stands across from the field where the battle occurred, paying tribute to this war hero.
Thamesville is also the birthplace of renowned Canadian author Robertson Davies, who penned the Deptford Trilogy of novels (Fifth Business, The Manticore, and World of Wonders). In these novels, Thamesville is fictionalized as the town of Deptford, Ontario.
Despite its small size, Thamesville boasts a vibrant downtown area with several restaurants and stores. These include Thamesville Surplus, Home Hardware, The Lucky Kitchen, Johnny Quest, Thoroughly Painted Quarters Mennonite Furniture, Canterlope Western Apparel and Tack, and The Bee's Hive. Just outside of town on Highway 2, you'll find Parks Blueberries, a local favorite.
Education in Thamesville is catered to by one Public Elementary School (Thamesville Area Central School), and one Catholic Elementary School (Good Shepherd Catholic School). For Secondary Education, students are bussed to Dresden to attend Lambton-Kent Composite School or other local secondary schools such as Ursuline College Chatham, Chatham-kent composite school, and Ridgetown District high-school.
Every June, Thamesville hosts the Threshing Festival, a celebration of its rural roots. The festival's main attractions include a midway and a large parade on the first night. Other events include lawnmower races, Farmer Olympics, and frog jumping contests, all adding to the festival's rural charm.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Thamesville had a population of 774 living in 345 of its 364 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -10.1% from its 2016 population of 861. With a land area of 2.22 km2 (0.86 sq mi), Thamesville had a population density of 348.6/km2 (903.0/sq mi) in 2021.
Thamesville also contributes to the Canadian industry with the manufacturing of Bulldog Steel Wool in the community.
In conclusion, Thamesville, Ontario, is a community that beautifully blends history, rural charm, and a vibrant local scene. Whether you're a history buff, a fan of rural festivities, or someone looking for a peaceful community to settle in, Thamesville has something to offer.
